Analcime, Italian Alps, Italy (186 year old historic specimen, Pre-1840)

Outside of their fascinating crystal form (trapezohedral), analcime is generally not a hot mineral to collect. However, this example has significant historical value. I recently purchased this piece as part of a larger collection from a retired chemical engineer, Tom Collins. The gentlemen was once stationed in London and purchased this analcime from the acclaimed Gregory, Bottley & Lloyd mineral dealership there. Their accompanying label states this analcime was in the collection of Robert Ferguson, an aristocrat who lived 1767-1840. In other words, this analcime could not have been extracted any later than 1840, making this the oldest specimen (at least 186 years old) I have had the privilege to handle! Unfortunately I do not have the chain of ownership from Mr Ferguson to Mr Collins, but it would make for a fun research project. Ex Tom Collins & Robert Ferguson collections. From: Italian Alps, Italy. Dimensions: 6 cm x 8 cm